When it comes to Christmas desserts, there’s nothing quite like a rich, indulgent chocolate cake. And if you want to take things up a notch, why not try an Italian chocolate Christmas cake? This heavenly dessert is a perfect blend of traditional flavors and modern flair, making it the ultimate showstopper at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and coffee to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 290
- Total fat: 16g
- Saturated fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 5g
Cooking Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Equipment
- 9-inch cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Serving Suggestions
This Italian chocolate Christmas cake is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top before serving.
Variations
If you want to switch things up, try adding some orange zest or cinnamon to the batter for a unique flavor twist. You can also use different types of nuts or chocolate chips to customize the cake to your liking.
Substitutions
If you don’t have hazelnuts on hand, you can use almonds or walnuts instead. You can also substitute the coffee with hot water or milk, or even use espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor.
Storage
This Italian chocolate Christmas cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Make sure to cool the cake completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- If you don’t have a 9-inch cake pan, you can use an 8-inch or 10-inch pan instead, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
- If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder.
Notes
This Italian chocolate Christmas cake is rich and decadent, so a little goes a long way. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can use any type of nut you like, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests this holiday season, look no further than this Italian chocolate Christmas cake. With its rich, chocolatey flavor and crunchy hazelnuts, it’s the perfect indulgence to savor after a big holiday meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking with different flavors and toppings. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it can be?